President pays homage to armed forces personnel for 'unparalleled courage' during 1971 Pakistan war

New Delhi, December 16

President Droupadi Murmu, on Saturday led the nation in paying tributes to the brave fallen heroes on the occasion of Vijay Diwas, which commemorates India’s historic victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war. 

Through a post on X, the President said the nation remembers with gratitude the selfless sacrifice and unparalled courage of the Armed Forces personnel which ensured India’s victory. 

“The nation remembers with gratitude the selfless sacrifice made by our armed forces during the 1971 war. On Vijay Diwas, I pay homage to the bravehearts who displayed unparalleled courage and achieved historic victory,” the post on X said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid heartfelt tributes to the brave soldiers, remembering their sacrifices and unwavering spirit. It will forever be etched in the people’s hearts and nation’s history, he said.

The PM also posted on X saying “Today, on Vijay Diwas, we pay heartfelt tributes to all the brave heroes who dutifully served India in 1971, ensuring a decisive victory. Their valour and dedication remain a source of immense pride for the nation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recalled the indomitable courage and valour of the Armed Forces personnel, stating that “We are proud of our Armed Forces who have fearlessly protected our country in every circumstance”.

The Defence Ministet also laid a wreath and paid homage to the fallen heroes at the National War Memorial in New Delhi to mark the day. 

The Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal AP Singh also paid homage.